Caribbean Single Market Economy (CSME)

The Department also administers the CARICOM (Free Movement) Skilled Persons Act which came into effect in July 1997.

The Act was designed to facilitate the free movement of Caribbean professionals within the Caribbean region. There are at present, 13 member states within Caricom, the majority have begun the implementation of this inter-regional agreement.

A document called "A Certificate of Recognition of Caribbean Community Skilled Person" is issued to persons who qualify under the Act. Each Caricom member state is required to issue this certification to qualified skilled persons entering their shores to engage in any form of employment.

This Caricom Free Movement of Skilled Persons agreement is being implemented on a phased basis where other categories of qualifying skills are to be included. To date, Artistes, Musicians, Journalists, Medical persons and Sport persons have been included under the Act.

Where the name of the applicant is not on the birth certificate, a Declaration signed before a Justice of the Peace/Notary Public by two persons who knew of the birth stating that he/she (applicant) is the parent.

Adoption papers (for adopted children).

Marriage certificate (in case of wife/husband).

A copy of the Decree Absolute certified by a Justice of the Peace/Notary Public if either or both the husband and wife were previously divorces.

A certified copy of the death certificate if former husband or wife had died.

These registration processes may attract a fee (the relevant authorities will advise).

Under the FNACC Act, it is stated "A Foreign National or Commonwealth Citizen" shall not engage in any occupation unless there is in force a valid work permit which is issued in relation to his/her current employment terms and specifications (see Section 3 of the Act).

Any employer who employs an expatriate who does not have in force a valid work permit in relation to that employment is liable to imprisonment or fines. (see Section 6 of the FNCC Act). Every work permit should be kept by the person to whom it is issued. (see Section 9 of the act).

Non-Commonwealth Citizens are required to obtain a work visa, BEFORE entering the Island to engage in employment activity. The Ministry National Security, 25 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10 should be contacted on matters relating to the granting of a visa.